On this trip to Banff, some of my favorite photos came together during a simple hike. No big plans or perfect lighting, just six of us old friends, walking through the pines and surrounded by mountains that at times felt like they were closing in on us. It looked like the skies might open up at any second, so picking up the pace, we sought out shelter and a warm cup of tea. My film camera bobbing along as I tried to keep up with my friends, unobtrusive, but ready at a moment’s notice.

When I look back at these photos now, I can feel the cold creeping into my fingers and toes as I remember the cold plunges in the teal water. I feel my stomach start to ache when recalling the endless bouts of laughter. I am filled with gratitude, thinking of these moments I shared with people who I sat with side by side in preschool. These rolls of film allow me to hold onto those moments for a bit longer.